CNA Classes Online – Do They Really Exist?

If your looking to become a CNA you’ve probably already wondered if it’s at all possible to complete your training online. The answer to this question is, yes, you can complete a portion of your training in the online format but you will still be required to complete hands on hours in a facility, supervised by an instructor or a registered nurse. The minimum is 75 hours of on-site training before you will be eligible to take your state exam.

If you would like the option to learn much of the theory of being a CNA online look for an a school that offers online courses but also offers a local training program that you can complete your mandatory hours. Online you will mostly be learning and memorizing medical terms and shorthand, whereas at your training facility you will be practicing what you’ve learned by taking care of the residents.

A hybrid online and in person training program may be a great option for those that are serious about earning their CNA license and starting work in the medical field but are busy and would benefit from having the option to study at home as well.

CNA Online Training

Believe it or not, you can actually begin training to become a CNA online by yourself, totally free of costs. This does not mean you will be able to bypass taking a certified and accredited CNA program before attempting your state exam. It does however mean that you will have a big jump on the competition and when you are ready to enroll in either a classroom or online nurse assistant program you will be way ahead of everyone and most of what you’re learning will be review. This can be a great way to learn the basics without spending any money. It will also give you a good idea if you CNA work is something you’ll enjoy and be good at.

And how does one get access to this training you ask? It’s simple, you just need to go to the Red Cross website and find the nursing assistant page and you can download a PDF entitled Nurse Assistant Training which details just about every aspect of CNA work, the healthcare environment and what it means to be a CNA. It’s a great tool for anyone looking for a free head start in CNA training.

Once you feel you’re ready, there are many technical schools and online schools that now offer nursing and nursing assistant programs. The great thing about these schools is that you will be able to qualify for financial aid which will allow you to complete your program, in many cases, with no out of pocket costs. Details about many of these online CNA training programs can be found on the schools websites. Talking to other CNAs in your area is also a great resource that you should take advantage of. They will many times have information that is not avaible elsewhere, such as which CNA programs offer the most bang for your buck and which ones are overpriced for what they offer.

If your serious about becoming a CNA, don’t give up! There are online resources, schools, healthcare professionals and friends who would all be happy to have the opportunity to help someone new get into this vitally important career. Assistant nursing is such a great way to get into the healthcare field because it will provide with a broad overview of what it means to work in healthcare and it will give you skills you won’t acquire from any other position, even nursing.